Licensing requirements for HVAC Tech in Alabama

HVAC Tech Responsibilties:

Install or repair heating, central air conditioning, HVAC, or refrigeration systems, including oil burners, hot-air furnaces, and heating stoves.

HVAC Tech Benefits:

HVAC techs can get lots of overtime work since many people require fixes and upgrades during the summer and winter months. The shortage of HVAC techs means there are more opportunities than ever in this space!

Do you need a license in Alabama to become an HVAC technician?

In the state of Alabama, it is mandatory for HVAC technicians working in residential and commercial settings to obtain a license in order to provide heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration services.

If you are interested in becoming an HVAC technician or need to find licensed professionals for your property, please visit our HVAC software page for more information.

What are the different types of HVAC licenses?

The state of Alabama offers two types of licenses for the HVAC industry: HVAC contractor and Refrigeration contractor. These licenses cover specialties such as heating and air conditioning as well as refrigeration. To obtain certification in each specialty area, applicants are required to take exams.

HVAC contractors in Alabama are responsible for the installation, repair, and servicing of air conditioning and heating systems. They utilize mechanical equipment to control temperature and humidity. To obtain an HVAC contractor license in Alabama, applicants must:

  • Obtain approval from the Alabama licensing board to sit for the exam.
  • Be registered as an HVAC apprentice.
  • Complete a minimum of 3,000 hours of HVAC coursework.
  • Graduate from an approved Alabama HVAC program.
  • Be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED.

Refrigeration contractors in Alabama are responsible for the repair, installation, and replacement of refrigeration systems and pipes. To obtain a refrigeration contractor license in Alabama, applicants must:

  • Pass an Alabama refrigeration contractor examination.
  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Have a high school diploma or GED.
  • Graduate from an approved HVAC program.
  • Be registered as an HVAC apprentice.
  • Obtain approval to sit for the exam.
  • Complete a minimum of 3,000 hours of HVAC coursework.

Authorized to work on heating and air conditioning units, Alabama HVAC contractors hold the necessary qualifications. Authorized to work on refrigeration systems, Alabama refrigeration contractors are equipped to handle such systems.

The Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors issues contractor licenses. In Alabama, the average salary for an HVAC technician is $39,042 per year or $18.77 per hour.

Benefits of getting an HVAC license

As an HVAC technician in Alabama, you have the opportunity to continually learn and develop new skills to stay up to date with changing technology. These skills include installing new equipment, repairing techniques, and troubleshooting. This not only keeps your mind sharp but also prevents boredom in your work. Getting trained for an HVAC license in Alabama is a relatively quick process, with the average HVAC program taking around 7 months to complete. This means you can start your career as an HVAC technician in a relatively short amount of time. One advantage of pursuing a career in HVAC in Alabama is the opportunity to receive on-the-job training as an HVAC apprentice. This means you can earn a salary while still taking your HVAC courses, providing a practical learning experience that combines classroom knowledge with real-world application. As an HVAC technician, you can enjoy an active lifestyle. Instead of sitting behind a desk all day, HVAC technicians work at multiple job sites and drive company vehicles. This allows you to meet new people and have a variety of experiences throughout your day-to-day work.

How much does it cost to get an HVAC license in Alabama?

In the state of Alabama, the fee for obtaining an HVAC contractor license and a refrigeration contractor license is $150.

How to get an HVAC license in Alabama

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Alabama HVAC Training Programs and Schools

Enroll in an Alabama HVAC apprentice program. After you have completed the program, you are eligible to sit for the HVAC contractor and refrigeration contractor examinations.

Types of HVAC Classes

  • Basic Electricity for HVAC
  • Gas and Electric Heating
  • Air Conditioning Control Principles
  • HVAC Systems Design
  • Energy Management and Green Building Design
  • Water Volume
  • Electrical Heating
  • Power and Resistance

Program Tuition Costs: Tuition for HVAC trade schools varies. Expect to pay between $4,000 and $10,000 to complete your HVAC certification courses. Since HVAC is a hands-on profession, courses are offered in a classroom setting.

HVAC Program Prerequisites

  • Possess an Alabama driver’s license or ID card.
  • Have a high school diploma or a GED.
  • Take a placement test.
  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Be physically capable of performing HVAC work.

On-the-Job Experience

  • Attend HVAC apprentice training classes after work.
  • Learn Alabama HVAC codes.
  • Read blueprints to install HVAC systems.
  • Perform math calculations as needed.
  • Assist supervisor with HVAC maintenance, repair, and installations.
  • Perform HVAC work at least 40 hours per week.

HVAC licenses are issued by the Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors.

Alabama Licensing Exams Details

  • Exam fee is $150.
  • HVAC Contractor Exam is 80 questions (4 hours to complete).
  • HVAC Refrigeration Exam is 60 questions (3 hours to complete).
  • Passing score for both exams is 70%.
  • Exams are administered by Prov Inc.

How to Study for HVAC Exams: Participate in a study group. Participate in hands-on projects at your HVAC apprentice job. Take HVAC practice exams under timed conditions. Study your class notes. Watch HVAC installation and repair videos.

Exam Resources

HVAC License Renewal: Renew your Alabama HVAC license by December 31 of every year. The license renewal fee is $190. Allow up to 60 days to receive your HVAC license in Alabama.

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